I’m happy to say I have a good driving record. I got my driver’s license at sixteen and only got two tickets, and I got those tickets in my thirties—one for not wearing my seat belt and another for speeding. I had accidents, but they were not my fault. I kept wondering why I was paying so much for car insurance over the years.
Here are some facts that will increase your car insurance premium. Depending on the violation, some of them are minor, while others are major:
Traffic Violations:
Minor:
- Following too closely
- Failure to yielding
- Improper passing
- Improper backing
- Failure to obey a traffic sign or device
- Speeding
Major:
- Careless driving
- Attempted felony
- Open alcohol bottle
- Driving under the influence
- Driving the wrong way
- Driving with a suspended license
- Passing a school bus
- Fleeing from the police or drag racing
- Vehicular homicide
- At-Fault Accident – you caused the accident, and they must file the claim on your insurance.
- Comprehensive claim – if it costs more than $500 for the insurance company to pay a claim.
- Aging – after the age of 70 years old, drivers can pay more than a teenager driver. At the age of 55 years old, you start receiving senior discounts.
- Lapse in Auto Insurance – you are penalized if you go a long period without insurance.
- Drop-in Credit Score- when you don’t pay bills on time or have high credit limits all the time.
- High-Risk Areas – if you reside in an area where drivers often make auto claims, you may face higher insurance premiums.
Over the years, I discovered my violation was minor, but I was still paying far too much for car insurance. At my current insurance, Geico they have a new way to lower your premiums. I didn’t ask how to lower my insurance, but I had a great rep to help me. She expressed that they have a new recalculating premium. They do credit checks. After running my credit, my monthly premium went down from $347 to $199!
At the end of the day, advocate for yourself and do not be afraid to ask questions. Have not because you ask NOT. If your credit is not where it should be, do the work so you can reap the benefits! Call your insurance and get lower insurance costs.
Be aware, be informed!